Current Trends & Strategy
In today’s healthcare environment, field advocacy has become essential for driving meaningful change in our profession. While federal policy and advocacy efforts tend to dominate the news, state and regional advocacy plays a critical role in meeting the unique needs of hospitals and health systems around the country. This session brings together leaders from several state hospital associations to explore the dynamic interplay between state, regional and federal policy, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by hospitals and health systems in both rural and urban settings.
Participants will gain insights into the latest advocacy trends, including how state-level initiatives intersect with federal priorities, and why collaboration across regions is critical for success. Through real-world case studies and a network of on-the-ground best practices, attendees will discover actionable strategies for building effective advocacy partnerships and amplifying their impact. Whether you’re new to advocacy or looking to deepen your engagement, this session offers tangible takeaways for healthcare leaders seeking to be more involved and influential in state and regional advocacy work. Join us to learn how you can champion your organization’s mission, shape policy, and drive positive outcomes for your patients and communities.
A.J. Wilhelmi
President/CEO
Illinois Health and Hospital Association
John Hawkins
President/CEO
Texas Hospital Association
Mary C. Mayhew
President/CEO
Florida Hospital Association
Jeff Tieman
President & CEO
Colorado Hospital Association